Species GuideYellow Scad
Yellow Scad
Selaroides leptolepis
Carangidae family · Pelagic
Least Concern
A small pelagic fish with a vivid yellow midlateral stripe running from snout to tail. Travels in dense schools in open coastal waters. An important baitfish used extensively by UAE anglers and a key prey species for larger pelagic predators.
Species Stats
Max Length
22 cm
Max Weight
0.3 kg
Depth Range
0–50 m
Diet
Zooplankton, small crustaceans
Habitat
Open coastal waters, offshore schools
Local Name (Arabic)
حمام
Fun Facts
- 1
The yellow lateral stripe is unique among UAE carangid species.
- 2
Schools of yellow scad attract larger predators like tuna and trevally.
- 3
Used extensively as live bait for targeting Spanish mackerel and barracuda.
Research Papers
Found In
Abu DhabiDubaiSharjahFujairahRas Al Khaimah
Quick Info
FamilyCarangidae
HabitatPelagic
EdibilityGood
CoastBoth
Dangernone
Related Species (Carangidae)
Last reviewed June 2026Sources: MOCCAE, EAD, FAO species profiles